About

CARLEEN is a Los Angeles-based womenswear collection designed by Kelsy Parkhouse, inspired by the patina of vintage textiles. We make aesthetically and functionally durable women’s clothing that delights and inspires.

Kelsy Parkhouse founded CARLEEN in May of 2012 after receiving positive reviews for her thesis collection at Pratt Institute. The founding collection drew inspiration from the Grand Canyon and the rich history of American quilting, a textile that has continued to inform the Carleen aesthetic both visually and metaphorically throughout the years. The quilts of Gee’s Bend are some of our favorites, please take a look at them here for endless inspiration.

We use repurposed textiles as often as possible, because of their patina and beauty, and also because of their more-gentle impact on our planet. We always choose fabrics made from natural fibers, including organic, recycled, and deadstock whenever possible. Everything is made locally in Los Angeles, where we can keep an eye on quality, reduce our carbon footprint, and also monitor the working conditions of the skilled people who make our clothes.